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Download AudioA new specialised ambulance for people weighing up to 320 kilos has just hit Auckland’s roads for Hato Hone – St Johns.
Hato Hone St John’s operations manager Chris Haines says the $300,000 bariatric ambulance is Auckland’s second, with similar machines in Hamilton, Palmerston North, Christchurch and Dunedin.
It’s expected to be required for up to four callouts a day, with each call taking longer than a normal job
“It’s designed for patients whose needs go beyond a standard ambulance can provide., and particularly larger patients. There’s more room, and the equipment enables patients to be moved safely into the ambulance while maintaining their dignity. They’ve put a large hoist on the back and a specially designed stretcher,” Mr Haines says.
The money for the ambulance was raised by the gambling machines charity, Grassroots Trust.
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